A tough, drought-hardy shade tree with glossy pinnate foliage that turns brilliant orange, red and crimson in autumn. An excellent, reliable choice for hot, dry street and park planting.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 12 m H × 10 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Chinese Pistachio
Pistacia chinensis is a moderate-growing tree in the Anacardiaceae family. It reaches around 12 m tall and 10 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Chinese Pistachio
Chinese Pistachio suits warm-temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Chinese Pistachio does best in loamy, clay, free-draining and poor soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Chinese Pistachio handles dry conditions well once established. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Chinese Pistachio in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Chinese Pistachio in the garden
Chinese Pistachio earns its place for a shade tree and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate as Chinese Pistachio. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Chinese Pistachio
Plant Sale lists Chinese Pistachio as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
